Pakistan’s National Database and Registration Authority (Nadra) has launched a facial recognition–based biometric verification facility, marking a major step forward in the country’s digital identity ecosystem and expanding access to secure identity verification through online platforms.
According to a Nadra spokesperson, the scope of biometric verification has been widened following recent amendments to the National Identity Card laws. Under the updated framework, citizens can now complete biometric verification using facial recognition technology through the Pak-ID mobile application, reducing reliance on fingerprint-based systems.
Starting January 20, Nadra Registration Centres will also issue biometric verification certificates based on facial recognition. The certificate will be available upon payment of a nominal fee and can be obtained whenever required. This initiative is particularly aimed at facilitating individuals who face difficulties with fingerprint verification due to age, health conditions, or worn fingerprints.
In cases where fingerprint authentication is not possible, applicants will be referred to the nearest Nadra centre for facial recognition verification. Upon successful authentication, Nadra will issue the biometric verification certificate, ensuring continuity of services without unnecessary delays.
The certificate will include the holder’s photograph, CNIC number, name, father’s name, a unique tracking ID, and a QR code, making it easily verifiable and suitable for both digital and physical use. Nadra has urged public and private sector institutions to update their systems and recognise the new verification facility to ensure smooth adoption.
The authority further stated that following the rollout of the Digital ID, facial recognition services will also be fully accessible through the Pak-ID mobile application, allowing citizens to complete verification processes remotely.
Highlighting the growing shift toward digital governance, Nadra revealed that more than six million citizens obtained identity documents through the Pak-ID app in 2025 alone. This surge reflects increasing public trust in digital government services and a strong preference for mobile-based solutions.
In a statement, Nadra thanked citizens for their confidence in the Pak-ID platform, noting that the application has significantly improved access to identity-related services while enhancing convenience and efficiency nationwide.
The authority added that the rising use of Pak-ID underscores its critical role in streamlining registration processes and supporting Pakistan’s broader push toward digitalisation of public services, positioning facial recognition as a key pillar of the country’s evolving digital identity framework.
 has launched a facial recognition–based biometric verification facility, marking a major step forward in the country’s digital identity ecosystem and expanding access to secure identity verification through online platforms.){kind=link}